Q1 2025: Top 3 Preferred Markets in Canada
1 min read
Altus Group’s latest Canadian Investment Trends Survey (ITS) reveals Vancouver, Halifax, and Edmonton as the top three preferred markets among investors in the first quarter of 2025. Edmonton held its position from Q4 of 2024, while Vancouver emerged as the leading market favoured by investors in Canada. Toronto has dropped out of the top 3 and has been replaced by Halifax.
Vancouver’s strong and stable economy and strategic location are a trade and international business hub. Halifax attracts investors with its combination of steady economic growth, population increase, and dynamic cultural landscape. Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, has a strong economic foundation, growing population, greater affordability, positive rental market and diverse economy, making it an attractive investment.
During the first quarter, investors continued to favour stable, low-risk assets, with food-anchored retail strip, suburban multiple-unit residential, and multi-tenant industrial emerging as the top three preferred property types. In the current economic state, investors are adopting a cautious strategy, reflected in the consistent preference for property types that offer steady income and strong demand.
Across most major markets, the favourable momentum ratio reveals a higher percentage of investors looking to buy than those looking to sell. However, this buyer interest may not immediately translate into increased investment activity.
References
Avison Young. (2025). Five Canadian CRE Trends to Watch in 2025. Avison Young Canada. https://www.avisonyoung.ca/viewpoints/spring-2025/canadian-cre-investment-trends-to-watch
Jennifer Nhieu, R. W. (2025, April 23). Canadian CRE Investment Trends - Q1 2025. Altus group. https://www.altusgroup.com/insights/canadian-cre-investment-trends/
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